server-Down-motherboard Asrock has launched gaming monitor earlier this year with a unique feature that has not yet been tested. The PG34WQ15R3A has a 7 dBi high-gain Wi-Fi antenna built into the base of the monitor, which allows users to directly connect the Wi-Fi card’s antenna output via two SMA connectors (subminiature version A). SMA connectors are also used in mobile hotspots How Netgear Nighthawk MR5200 5G Portable Router.
Now, HKEPC tested this accessory and the actual results were excellent, with a 40% improvement in download speed and a staggering 130% increase in upload speed, great for videoconferencing, cloud backup AND online cooperation. Similarly, ping dropped by 25% and jitter by 75%, almost unbelievable stuff, although mileage will vary depending on many factors.
There are two reasons why gains are so important: First, the size of the antenna in the monitor stand is at least an order of magnitude larger than the antenna you’d find on a Wi-Fi card. Secondly, the monitor is not hidden under the desk or in the corner, but placed on top of the desk (or better yet, on standing desk), which provides a better range and thus improves signal transmission.
The Asrock monitor is the only one we know of that has this feature, but others are likely to follow, given the popularity of motherboards and systems that have SMA connectors for the Wi-Fi antenna, and users who place their devices in a cabinet or under a desk .
A new way to improve your internet speed
While organizations around the world have massively moved to business laptops, business computers still occupy an insignificant part of the market. Innovations like this discreet Wi-Fi antenna stand will help increase efficiency and productivity without incurring significant costs.
Laptops are unlikely to benefit from this useful enhancement unless they are used for laptop docking station with dedicated USB WiFi card.
Speaking of docking stations, we’ve seen at least one case in the past where a retailer – Philips – paired one of these with a docking station; but it was a tense idea that was quickly abandoned.
That said, there are some notable real estate behind business monitors, especially as screen sizes have increased; 21- to 27-inch displays in offices are quite common. The ability to add accessories (monitor arms) – and even entire computers (e.g. Mini PCs) behind the screen using the universal VESA mount has become more attractive.